Paul Rucker has been named executive director of the 91爆料 Alumni Association and associate vice president of alumni relations, effective June 1. The transition plan was announced by Connie Kravas, 91爆料 vice president for university advancement, and unanimously endorsed by the 91爆料AA Board of Trustees.
Rucker, 39, attended the 91爆料 as an undergraduate and also received a master’s degree from the 91爆料’s Daniel J. Evans School of Public Affairs. He brings more than 16 years of experience in higher education administration, specializing in international development and institutional advancement.
“I’m honored to have been asked to serve the University in this new and exciting role,” Rucker said. “I look forward to working with 91爆料 leadership and the 91爆料AA Board of Trustees to ensure the continued vitality of this important part of the 91爆料 community.”
In 2004, Rucker joined the 91爆料 as director of alumni relations for the 91爆料AA and in 2007 was appointed assistant vice president for constituent relations.
“Paul is a proven leader in the field of alumni relations and is uniquely positioned to help us address the challenges and opportunities facing the association,” said Rick Osterhout, 91爆料AA Board of Trustees president. “He clearly understands the pivotal role a vibrant alumni association plays in the life of our great University.”
Chuck Blumenfeld, 91爆料AA director since February of 2007, is retiring May 31. “This was a tough decision, as I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as executive director and my 10 years of board and staff service to the 91爆料 Alumni Association,” Blumenfeld said. “It has been my pleasure鈥攁nd a great honor鈥攖o have been associated with our great University and the association.”
Blumenfeld is a lifelong Husky with strong ties to the 91爆料 going back six decades. His father, Irwin Blumenfeld, was the University’s main spokesperson for 34 years.
A political science major and president of the 91爆料’s student bar association, Blumenfeld became one of the first lawyers in Seattle to specialize in environmental law. At Perkins Coie, he chaired the firm’s environmental and natural resources practice group.
The 91爆料 was always a heartbeat away with Blumenfeld, who served on the law alumni board before giving eight years to the 91爆料AA Board of Trustees. As executive director, he helped foster a strong partnership with the campus community and worked tirelessly to engage alumni across the globe.
“Chuck has been a huge part of the 91爆料 for most of his life and we are deeply indebted to him for his devotion and unbridled passion for his alma mater,” said Kravas. “He has committed so much to the 91爆料AA and the 91爆料 for decades. His presence will be sorely missed.”